In a challenge, I believe not only a shot must follow the theme and the rules ( and the host has the duty of making sure), but also the image quality must be good!... Between two shots that are following the rules, I always vote higher for the one that is artistically and technically better!... Unfortunately, we see too often too many shots with very bad IQ winning or being placed in high positions.

From the quality of your photos, I would say you have earned the right to be critical of my photo and I am sure your opinion is respected. I would like to see what your choice for 1st place is. I think it will contribute to the learning aspect of the challenges. Preferably, of course the photo would have a serpentine road that is the true subject of the photo.